The military leader of Sudan is currently embarking on visits to army installations situated beyond the capital city. This marks his initial departure from Khartoum since the eruption of an internal conflict in April. Coinciding with this, the United Nations has issued a warning, highlighting the potential for this conflict to precipitate a humanitarian catastrophe of regional proportions.
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan is set to depart Sudan for discussions in nearby nations following his tour of regional bases and Port Sudan, the provisional governmental headquarters. This strategic move, revealed by two credible government sources, underscores his commitment to engaging with neighboring countries after his domestic military visits.
Since April 15th, there has been an ongoing conflict between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) over the control of Khartoum and various other cities.
Efforts towards mediation have yielded no substantial results, with diplomats indicating that both factions remain resolute in their belief of securing victory. The toll of this conflict is stark: over 4 million individuals have been displaced from their residences, essential services have crumbled, and the conflict has ushered in a wave of ethnic assaults perpetuated by the RSF and its affiliated militias in the Darfur region.
On Friday, Martin Griffiths, the United Nations’ head of humanitarian aid, conveyed, “The far-reaching consequences of this pervasive conflict, coupled with the ensuing famine, illnesses, and displacement, now loom ominously over the entirety of the nation.”
Expressing his apprehensions through an official statement, he conveyed his unease regarding the escalation of hostilities in the Gezira state, a crucial agricultural region situated just south of Khartoum. In this area, the RSF has reportedly initiated incursions, further intensifying the situation.